Which medication is often administered for acute rate control in atrial flutter?

Administering beta blockers for acute rate control in atrial flutter is a well-established practice due to their ability to effectively reduce heart rate and decrease myocardial workload. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, leading to a slower heart rate and improved response to electrical signals. In cases of atrial flutter, where the atria are beating rapidly and irregularly, managing the heart rate is crucial to prevent potential complications such as heart failure or thromboembolic events.

Other medications listed, such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and antibiotics, are not primarily aimed at controlling the heart rate during an atrial flutter episode. Diuretics are used to manage fluid status, ACE inhibitors are typically used for hypertension and heart failure but do not provide immediate rate control, and antibiotics are indicated for treating infections rather than cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, beta blockers are specifically chosen in this context for their efficacy in promptly addressing the rapid heart rate associated with atrial flutter.